What items can I easily replace with plastic free or less plastic alternatives?
Probably at least half very easily – the rest with a little more effort.

What items would I be willing to give up if a plastic free alternative doesn’t exist?
produce bags would be very easy to dispense with and then I could just use my newspaper bags for dog waste – unless I come up with a better solution for that

What items are essential and seem to have no plastic-free alternative?
tooth brush
chapstick
pens
yogurt
contact lens fluid

What lifestyle change(s) might be necessary to reduce my plastic consumption?
Just being aware is imperative

What one plastic item am I willing to give up or replace this week?
produce bags at the market

What other conclusions, if any, can I draw?
This week was quite enlightening!

Post navigation

Hi Colleen. Welcome to the challenge! I have some suggestions for you.

St. Benoit yogurt is made in Northern California and comes in returnable glass mason jars or ceramic carafes. You pay a deposit and get it back at the store when you return the container. This link will show you locations in your area. Click on "Central Coast." http://www.stbenoit.com/html/findYogurt.html

I have lots of other suggestions, but I think you have already figured out some things to do in the following weeks, and I'm looking forward to seeing your next posts. Cheers!

I am fortunate to have a septic system and deposit dog waste directly into it -- except when we are out walking, then I have the same problem as everyone else unless I carry it all the way back home and try to turn the bag inside out -- yuck!

Yogurt containers that I buy are #5, which is recyclable here. Not there?